Thursday, December 22, 2011

On December 19th students at the Cook Library Center enjoyed making Christmas cards for their family and friends. The cards were very creative and had awesome designs. Chase (below) took his time to draw and decorate cards for his Mom and Dad. Since Chase is growing up in a bi-lingual world, he made sure to write his card in both English and Spanish.Some of the students used the GAAH Aztec sun logo to create unique Christmas cards (above). The Cook Library Center is a wonderful atmosphere for all ages. There are toys for young ones to play with, a beautiful community kitchen, tables for activities & homework, and a bi-lingual library. Anyone can stop by, and volunteers to help with homework are always needed. Email Outreach@gaah.org to get info on upcoming community events or volunteer opportunities. ¡Feliz Navidad!

Friday, December 16, 2011

This past week, the Press Club went to go see the Grand Rapids Ballet perform the Nutcracker at Devos Hall. Most of the students were not familiar with the story and had many questions before hand: "Is there going to be REAL magic?" "How are we going to know what's going on if there is no talking?" Although some of the boys were initially a little apprehensive, all the students left Devos Hall either dancing or talking about the "cool" parts.

The next day, students wrote about their experience for the Press Club (look out for their review) Avelycia (age 12) commented, "It was really really great, the dancers were moving along with the music. When the music got slower they also got slower and when it was fast they moved fast...I love the ballet." Students got a kick out of the "Ballet Christmas Tree" in the lobby, and took a special picture (below) just to show Ms. Steffanie (Program Director at GAAH).

Friday, December 2, 2011

Little GAAH dancers say farewell to their beloved Ballet & Tap instructor Kelly Malinowski this winter. Kelly has been teaching at GAAH for almost two years, and says, "I've loved working in this neighborhood, the students are so passionate and I will miss them all dearly"

Kelly comments on how the arts have been cut from many school programs, and therefore, emphasizes how important GAAH is to the kids. Kelly is specifically passionate about the benefits of dance in early childhood development. To read more about the beneficial role dance can play in physical, emotional, & cognitive development click here.

Kelly is off to graduate school in California to study public administration, and fondly says, "Thank you to the Cook Arts Center and to the dancers for all their hard work!"The Cook Arts Center offers high quality programming, with classes taught by professionals.The Cook Arts Center will start a new semester this January 9th. Exciting new classes include Watercolor for Kids, Beads, Cards, & Glass Design (9-16 yrs), Recycled Sculpture (7+), Piñatas & paper Maché (5-15 yrs). Click here for the full list of classes!